Welcome to the Yeltons and Hometown Musical Memories

It has been my pleasure to know the Yelton family since they moved to Cullowhee many years ago. Joe and Corrine had a vibrant ministry at the Cullowhee Baptist Church, and were loved by all.  Their children, Rosemary and Jake were young when they arrived, and grew up in the rural university setting, with the many opportunities that WCU provides.  The Yeltons were active in community life and great fans of music.  I like that!!

Corrine is a soprano who sang in Dr. Dooley's Western Carolina Community Chorus, as well as in the Cullowhee Church Choir.  She also played in the Handbell Choir.  The children took piano from Barbara Dooley, who was their organist.  Mrs. Yelton came to me for some "coaching" on directing choirs when she was asked to lead the choir at the church.  Our musical paths have often crossed.

If you attended a choral concert or a madrigal dinner at WCU, you would find the Yeltons among the patrons.  They came with their children and enjoyed what we had to offer, and always made a point to come to speak to me after the performances.  We are, indeed,   fortunate to have secured Dr. Yelton as our Interim Pastor.  He values and appreciates music which is heartfelt and well prepared. I have devoted over 56 years of professional life to church music leadership, so that means a great deal to me, as it will to the others involved in our music ministry.

We may be looking for a new pastor for quite some time, but be assured — we are being led by a highly capable  servant of God.   I'm sure that our fellowship will be blessed by Dr. and Mrs. Yelton, and I look forward to our work together for the people of First Baptist Church of Sylva.


Bob Holquist
Minister of Music

Passportkids: Spaces Available

This year's Passportkids will be held on June 30-July 3 at Montreat College. Children who have completed 3rd through 6th grades — this PASSPORT is for you! We still have some spaces available if you know of anyone who is interested in going. 

For those who have paid a deposit already, another installment of $75.00 is due by January 29th. Please give your deposit to Janice in the church office by that day.

If you haven’t already told her, please let Cheryl Beck know as soon as possible if you are going. 

Potluck Welcome Event for Interim Pastor, Joe Yelton

Please join us on Wednesday evening, February 7 at 5:15 p.m. to welcome Dr. Joe Yelton with a potluck meal followed by time spent with him in fellowship.  Our time of fellowship will be from 6:00 to 6:45 pm with choir practice to follow at 7:00 p.m.

Please bring your favorite homemade or take-out meal or dessert to share.  Water and tea will be provided as well as paper products and plasticware.

Hurray for Our Nursery Workers of the Week!

We appreciate Melanie and Izzy Joiner working in the church nursery on Sunday.  Everyone had fun!

On January 28, Beth and Lucie Moore will serve in the nursery.  Thank you!

A new schedule for nursery workers will be sent out in the next few days.  If you would like to help in the nursery and haven't been on the schedule, please contact Cheryl Beck.

There is still room on the schedule to serve “the least of these”
on Sunday mornings.  It is a blessing to see their smiles and enthusiasm as you spend
time with our infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. 
Please contact Cheryl Beck (cabeck@ncsu.edu) if you would like to help.